The Right (and the Dangerous) Way to Use a Retractable Dog Leash

Looking for a leash that makes walking your curious canine more convenient? The retractable reel-type leash is an option that many people love, but before you run out and get one, make sure you know the risks and the product limitations.

Retractable leashes have many critics, and for good reason — the function that makes them so appealing, the easy unspooling and retracting — also creates many potential hazards. Some dogs have bitten people or other pets because they were too far away from their owners to be controlled easily. Other dogs have hurt themselves when they've kicked into a run and then found themselves jerked backward when the leash line runs out. (This is also pretty tough on the human holding the handle.) Among other issues, owners have been hurt when the leash itself comes undone from the pet and snaps back and hits the owner.